Here at Printware, we love industry news and any news that makes headlines the way the latest Star Wars film has, is big business too! While it may not surprise us, for many other people the realm of 3D printing is still so far removed from everyday life that it is easy to forget that it is very much a part of the world we already live in.

It might appear futuristic and a little space age but for a broad range of businesses and industries, 3D printing is not just readily available, it is also essential for them to stay at the top of their game.

One of the industries that benefit greatly from 3D printing is the film industry. 3D Printing has been used to make props in movies and films for many years now, and this looks to be a trend that is expanding. There are companies that specialise in making only film props in order to give their movie studio clients a faster turnaround; for movies on a deadline, such as Star Wars, Episode VII - The Force Awakens.

Released in December, the most recent instalment of the hit franchise smashed records around the world, and was deemed a success by fans old and new. As one of the most hyped films in cinematic history, the film had a lot to live up to, and it certainly delivered. New characters were likable, and the styling and costumes were just as you would expect - and many of them were 3D printed!

That’s right; the humble 3D printer that many people overlook and forget about was used to create many of the iconic props and characters outfits, including Kylo Ren’s hilted red lightsabre and the Storm Troopers’ flamethrower backpack, amongst many more. Captain Phasma’s helmet was hard to take your eyes off, and even cult favourite, C3PO’s body was part 3D printed.

So, if you think that 3D printing is futuristic, then you would be right - but we are also head and shoulders into this futuristic reality already. If you would like to expand your business into the future, then join the legion of 3D printer users and see how it helps your business evolve. Please get in touch for more information!